“Evil Eye” and “Malocchio” Superstitions

The Evil Eye

The “malocchio” (mal=bad occhio=eye) or the evil eye, is a look one gives another if they are envious or jealous. Legend has it that others can cause harm upon someone by basically looking at them.  People believe that these overlooks are a way of putting a “curse” on others and done unintentionally.  This can result in physical pain such as head or stomach aches or cause misfortune.  Those of excessive beauty are more susceptible to being overlooked since more people would be envious of their looks.

Italian Horn

So how do we avoid malocchio?  A huge aspect of Italian culture is devoted to the folklore of the malocchio and how to get rid of it.  Many Italians wear a horn (cornuto, corno, or cornicello) which resembles a chili pepper.  This is supposed to resemble a curled- over sheep or goat horn.  They are usually made of coral, gold or silver and are either worn as a necklace or hung in one’s home to ward off the evil spirits.  This horn tradition evolved in Old Europe (before Christianity), when the horned animal (the moon goddess) was considered sacred.

Evil Eye Bracelets and Key chains

To confirm that you have been overlooked and wish to remove the curse, an old wives tale tells of a cure with certain rituals.  To diagnose someone with the evil eye, have them drop three drops of olive oil in a bowl filled with water.  If the oil forms the shape of an eye, the victim has been overlooked.  As the oil separates from the water, make the sign of the cross and say, “In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”  Then make the sign of the cross on both of your hands.  As you do this, place your hands on the other person and say: “Father this prayer is being said for (insert name of victim) and I pray it works in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”  You must repeat this prayer three times.  After that is done, both people must say one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one “Glory Be To the Father, Son and Holy Spirit as it was in the beginning is now and forever shall be.”  Sometimes this part is done by holding hands.  It is known that this prayer is the most effective on Christmas Eve, but it will still work during any time of the year.  This prayer can only be taught to other family members at midnight on Christmas Eve.

Kim Kardashian wearing Evil Eye Bracelet